Tips for sustainable living

The Waterpodders show you how to fall off the grid.

“Wastematch is like a nonprofit Craigslist for recycling building and office supplies,” says Mattingly. “People can place listings online and arrange pickups of materials.” (212-650-5832, wastematch.org)

Hunter takes her compost to the Lower East Side Ecology drop-off table in Union Square. “Or purchase one of their worm condos ($55), which are great for composting in an apartment,” she says. Call 212-477-4022 or visit lesecologycenter.org to order an outdoor compost bin for pickup at Union Square.

“Reuse everyday materials as much as you can,” suggests Ward. “When I’m at work I’m always getting cups of coffee. Now I bring my own mug instead of using plastic cups. Reusable shopping bags are also easy to pick up—get one at Whole Foods.”

“Human-powered transportation is my preferred travel style,” says McGarvey. “The all-volunteer, free, Long Island City Community Boathouse is the perfect way to get some exercise and remind yourself that you are living on an island.” 4-40 44th Dr at Anable Cove (718-228-9214, licboathouse.org)